The Directorate General of Shipping has condemned MSC Ship Management for negligence in the MV ELSA 3 rescue efforts near Kochi. Highlighting environmental risks, it warned that legal action will follow if oil extraction doesn’t start within 48 hours, jeopardizing local fishing communities’ livelihoods amid ongoing pollution challenges.
Survitec is urging shipowners and managers to prepare for new IMO fire protection regulations effective January 1, 2026. These require fixed water monitors on weather decks of Roro and Ropax vessels to address rising fire incidents, particularly with electric vehicles. These monitors offer efficient, targeted protection, enhancing crew safety during firefighting.
ClassNK has enhanced its GHG emissions management tool, ClassNK ZETA, to improve compliance with FuelEU Maritime and EU-ETS regulations. New features include pool optimization for FuelEU Maritime and direct inquiries for EU Allowance purchases. The platform now integrates third-party services, like NAPA’s Fleet Intelligence, supporting efficient emissions management.
The British Virgin Islands government is updating maritime laws to improve safety, protect the environment, and boost enforcement powers. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley stressed the importance of maintaining the territory’s reputation in the maritime sector. The Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Bill, 2025, aligns the Virgin Islands with international maritime standards to enhance flag state administration.
The Panama Maritime Authority has deregistered 107 vessels flagged for compliance concerns or on sanctions lists. An additional 18 vessels are undergoing the process. Stricter pre-registration analysis now includes owner and operator background checks. Risk matrices and technology upgrades help identify illicit activities. Panama is dedicated to transparency and security, upholding international standards.
The recent collision between MV Stena Immaculate and MV Solong near Grimsby, UK highlights human error in maritime accidents. To address safety concerns, the industry invests in advanced sensors. SafeNav, a digital co-pilot system, offers real-time guidance on the bridge for collision avoidance. It aims to enhance decision-making and comply with regulations.
Panama’s maritime industry has excelled in meeting international safety and environmental standards, boasting a remarkable 96.5% compliance rate. The Panama Maritime Authority closely monitors the fleet, ensuring adherence to strict criteria set by global frameworks. With a growing registry and emphasis on quality, Panama remains a top choice for ship registration worldwide.
CLdN has introduced a new service to help partners meet stricter EU environmental standards under the FuelEU Maritime directive. The use of biofuels can reduce emissions but comes at a higher cost. Pooling allows companies to combine ship performances to comply with regulations and reduce penalties. CLdN aims to lead in sustainability and compliance.
The updated guidelines for ship operators include new ballast water record books and a Ballast Water Reporting Form for vessels entering ports. While tank-by-tank logs are recommended, they are not mandatory. Some stakeholders support the changes for sustainability, but others worry about administrative burdens and inspection delays. The technical assistance for new protocols is available.
The Fuel EU Maritime Regulation, effective from January 1, 2025, mandates vessels over 5,000 gross tonnage to reduce greenhouse gas emissions gradually. Shipowners must submit a monitoring plan by August 31, 2024, to adhere to the reporting system. Non-compliance penalties can be steep, but options like pooling and trading surplus compliance balances offer flexibility.
Hecla Emissions Management, a collaboration between Wilhelmsen Ship Management and Affinity Shipping LLP, launched the FuelEU Maritime Exchange platform in Singapore on September 26, 2024. This innovative platform allows secure trading of compliance balances to promote the adoption of alternative fuels in the shipping industry, addressing the upcoming FuelEU Maritime regulation.
